When I first moved to Switzerland, I was amazed at the price of everything, but especially of furniture and household decorations. I needed to make my space homey, but I wasn’t going to spend a fortune on new things. That’s when I learned about Brockenhäuser (or “Brockis”), the secondhand stores of Switzerland—absolute treasure troves of vintage, high-quality, unique pieces.
What began as an effort to save money quickly turned into an obsession. From wooden furniture to vintage antiques, I’ve furnished my home almost entirely with secondhand finds and thrift flips.
But what is it that makes thrifting so addictive?
1. The Dopamine Rush of Discovery 🎯
The thrill of discovering a one-of-a-kind item among the many choices releases the brain’s pleasure hormone, dopamine. The experience is much the same as the thrill gamblers experience, so each trip to the second-hand shop is an adventure in finding the unexpected.
2. Nostalgia and Emotional Connection 🕰️
Vintage products tend to remind people of the past, enabling consumers to relive bygone times or past experiences. That sense of nostalgia can be a source of comfort as well as a sense of connection, particularly in times of upheaval.
3. The Allure of Uniqueness and Individuality 🌟
In the mass production era, thrifting offers the prospect of finding one-of-a-kind pieces of clothing which reflect personal taste. The uniqueness offered by thrifting allows individuals the freedom to express themselves in a distinctive manner, apart from the mainstream.
Source : Yan, G., Li, Y., Zhang, T., & Mu, C. (2024). Purchase intention for second-hand luxury goods: An empirical study of Chinese consumers. PLOS ONE, 19(6), e0304967. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0304967
What is a Brocki? 🏠
The idea of Brockenhäuser (or “Brockis”) originated in Switzerland in the late 19th century. Initially, due to the name and a significant language barrier, I assumed these shops might be filled with damaged or discarded items. However, they are actually known for their carefully curated selections of high-quality, pre-loved goods.
The first Brockenhäuser were established by charitable organizations as a way to offer affordable goods to lower-income families, using the profits fund social projects. In due course, these stores became a defining feature of Swiss culture, embracing sustainability and responsible consumerism long before these ideas became mainstream.
Brockis are more than second-hand stores nowadays but rather community centers where items get a second life, waste is reduced, and history is preserved. Anything you will see in a Brocki has a story, and that’s what makes shopping here such a special experience✨
Source : https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brockenhaus
How I discovered Brockis- The Hidden Gem in Bern 🏡✨
I was strolling around Bern’s lovely old town one day when I noticed a small store that drew my attention with its amazing window display. I thought it was a high-end shop with a corresponding price tag, so I nearly didn’t enter. However, my curiosity got over me, and I entered. I was amazed by what I discovered!
The place was packed with all kinds of treasures:
- Vintage furniture🪑
- Beautiful ceramics 🍶
- Unique decor pieces 🖼️
- Even clothes and accessories 👗👒
Why Swiss Brockis Are the Best 🇨🇭❤️
After visiting many thrift shops around the world, I can confidently say that Swiss Brockis are next level Why?
- The Swiss take amazing care of their belongings.
- Items are often in pristine condition (especially furniture and ceramics).
- They’re well-organized and easy to browse.
- They promote sustainability by giving items a second life.
Exploring Brockis has completely changed the way I decorate my home and shop sustainably. Whether you’re looking for a hidden gem or just want to experience Swiss culture in a new way, visiting a Brockenhaus is a must! 🛍️✨
In the upcoming blog posts, I’ll share my personal renovation journey, exciting thrift finds, and tips on how you can incorporate secondhand treasures into your own home décor.
Do you have a favorite thrift shop find? Share your story in the comments below! 👇
Well written, looking forward to more posts on Swiss Brockis!
This motivates me to visit some Brockis!
Looking forward to the tips to incorporate it in ny home decor, maybe I’ll be motivated to buy something.
This was such an enjoyable read Sushmitha! I love how you’ve captured the thrill of thrifting and the charm of Swiss Brockis. Looking forward to your upcoming posts on home décor and thrift finds.
Wow, I absolutely loved reading your latest post! Your perspective is so descriptive and well written.Keep up the amazing work – can’t wait to read more!
Vintage furniture is all about history, I am interested in more of what you have found and stories behind it. Well written, looking forward for upcoming posts.
Great blog!! Looking forward for your future blogs.
In my experience, I find the most valuable finds in Brockis outside of the city in the countryside. It’s always a balancing act between shabby, old, broken things and valuable individual pieces. Looking forward to maybe a list of Brockis in Bern? :)))
I love how you captured the thrill of thrifting and the unique charm of Swiss Brockenhäuser. It’s amazing how these stores not only offer hidden treasures but also promote sustainability and mindful consumerism. Your experience in Bern’s old town sounds like a dream for any vintage lover! Looking forward to more of your thrift adventures. ✨🛍️♻️
Super Interesting! This was such a fun, personalized and insightful read. Really intrigued about the high quality items, that are organized so well, and their emphasis on sustainability. Will watch this space for more on Swiss Brockis, thrift items, and interior design.
I was always fascinated by thrifting but never ventured into it. This post wants me to give thrifting a try and I’m looking forward to your tips!!
You made them look so good now I definitely need to discover them 🙌🙌
Can’t wait to tag along your journey!🤩